Katherine Center’s books are hopeful. Characters are workin on overcoming something, on being accepted, on finding love and moving on.. Her characters Duncan and Samantha both have obstacles blocking their way and they are able to help each other as they deal with some debilitating issues in their pasts so that they can be happy and move forward.

Katherine Center’s latest novel, What You Wish For, is a beautiful story about love and loss, friendship and “found” family, and perhaps most importantly, it’s a story about overcoming fears, embracing joy, and living life to the fullest.

The story follows Samantha (“Sam”) Casey, an elementary school librarian at a prestigious private school in Galveston, Tx. Life is pretty good for Sam when we first meet her. She loves her job – the school itself is fantastic with a vibrant, creative atmosphere, and Sam loves interacting with her students and with her colleagues. She even loves her bosses, Max and Babette Kempner, the beloved founders of the school who also happen to be Sam’s landlords. Over the years, Sam has come to think of Max and Babette as family.

When tragedy strikes unexpectedly and Max passes away, Sam’s life, both personally and professionally, is thrown into turmoil, especially when she learns that the man hired to replace Max as Principal is none other than Duncan Carpenter, a teacher from her old life that Sam had a mad crush on, so much so that when she realized she had missed her chance with him and that he was marrying someone else, she immediately resigned her position and moved to Texas to get away from his happily ever after with someone else. When Duncan arrives, Sam is shocked that 1) he doesn’t even recognize her, and 2) he immediately starts dismantling everything about her beloved school that made it so special.

What You Wish For really took off for me from the moment Duncan walked back into Sam’s life. He’s so awful and not at all like Sam has described him to her friends that I, like Sam, was obsessed with trying to figure out what had happened to cause such a radical change in his personality. I was even more hooked by the story though from the moment Sam and Duncan have their first meeting. It’s borderline hostile and he clearly doesn’t remember Sam, but even so, the chemistry between them is intense and the sparks are flying. This was a relationship I was eager to see evolve!

Aside from the relationship between Sam and Duncan, I also just loved all of the secondary characters in this story. I already mentioned the lovable Max and Babette, but there’s also Alice, the hilarious math teacher who wears math pun t-shirts to work everyday and who is also Sam’s best friend. Then there is Babette’s adorable grandson, Clay, who is a bookworm and loves to hang out in the library with Sam. Oh and there’s also an adorable labradoodle named Chuck Norris who will absolutely melt your heart.

The last thing I want to mention is a major theme running through the story that I really loved. It was Max’s life philosophy, which he imparted to Sam over the years anytime he sensed her struggling. Max believed that no matter what is going on in your life, no matter how scared or stressed you may be, it’s important to always choose joy. That while it may not solve all of your problems, it’s a great place to start. I thought that was such a beautiful philosophy, and one that is especially relevant right now, with everything that is going on in the world.

What You Wish For is my third Katherine Center novel and she has yet to disappoint. Her stories are always so moving and filled with unforgettable characters, and they never fail to leave me with a full heart and a smile on my face. If that sounds like your kind of read, you definitely want to give What You Wish For a try.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest, voluntary review. Katherine Center has never disappointed me when it comes to excellent writing and fantastic characters. Her stories draw you in and will captivate you until the very last page. Congratulations Katherine for another superb book! Enjoy! 📚

This was the first book by Katherine Center that I read but it certainly won’t be the last. I loved Max & Babette’s story as well as Duncan and Sam”s story. The characters and story was very well written. After an unexpected event Duncan arrives at the school where Sam works to become the new principal. Sam remembers him from a previous school and his fun loving personality. However, upon his arrival he is nothing l8ke she remembers he is hard and strict. I loved the character development and couldn’t wait to see how all their stories would end.

I really enjoyed this book. The characters had a lot of depth to them. It was just what I want when I pick up a Katherine Center book!

WHAT YOU WISH FOR is a compelling, timely, and ultimately uplifting read about finding “joy” amid tragedy—filled with quirky characters and lots of heart. There is an ongoing theme about choosing “joy” on purpose. Not, despite life’s sorrows. But, because of them. What an excellent book for the times we are living.

Stay tuned for my unique fun and exciting Elevator Ride with the Author, coming July 14th. Learn all the behind the scenes exclusives from WHAT YOU WISH FOR and more about this talented Author.

If you are looking for a book that makes you smile, laugh out loud, and good for the soul— pick up any Katherine Center book. If you have not seen her book to movie, THE LOST HUSBAND, be sure and stream it now!

WHAT YOU WISH FOR has an extraordinary cast of characters with personality. Hoping for a movie based on this book as well!

Set on the historical island of Galveston, Texas, in an old Victorian building, there is an elementary school with a fun-loving and caring principal, Max. Everyone loved Max and his wife, Babette.

Samantha Casey’s life has not always been easy before moving to Galveston, where she began working as an elementary school librarian. Max and Babette became like her parents and rented a cottage from them. They were her role models.

After planning a big anniversary party for the couple, while having to fight against their not so nice daughter, Tina, a tragedy occurs. Max, now gone, has left everyone in the town shattered and grief-stricken.

The school receives the word they are getting a new principal, Duncan. (you may recall from her previous book). She is shocked. At her old school, he was the guy she had a mad crush on that did not return her feelings.

However, soon she learns the fun-loving, quirky guy she fell in love with is no more. He is quite the opposite. Plus, he does not even acknowledge her and acts as though they have never met.

Sam and Duncan seem to have switched places. She was the solemn one in the past, and he was the fun one. Now she wears all the quirky fun colors, and Duncan is a stick in the mud. He is strict and changing all the rules. He is taking away all their joy. Long gone is the fun, impulsive Duncan with the colorful ties and socks.

He is ruining their school. Sam must do something before he destroys all the work Max and Babette set in motion. However, things are not always as they seem. There is a story behind both Sam and Duncan. Each is guarding their private secrets. However, for them to truly get to know one another again, the walls must come down.

What a fantastic story! You will fall in love with little Clay. Fans of Mary Alice Monroe (protecting wildlife) will be assured to enjoy WHAT YOU WISH FOR.

Katherine is a master storyteller (with a special gift) who writes both humorous and bittersweet stories. Stories of falling and getting back up. Tragedy over triumph. She skillfully turns something tragic into something beautiful with humor and heartwarming characters.

Her characters must always learn a powerful lesson. At the same time, readers will receive a message which will resonate with them.

WHAT YOU WISH FOR is timely and perfect for each of us today in these uncertain and trying times. We all need an escape from the madness. Triumph over tragedy. Joy in the places we least expect. Katherine is assured to provide entertainment and a smile to brighten your day.

😎 Highly recommend!

#JDCMustReadBooks

A special thank you to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for an advanced reading copy.

Sam is a school librarian in Galveston TX, where she has found her place, somewhere she feels like she belongs. When the school principal suddenly passes, there is a hole ripped in their community and in Sam's heart. When his replacement is announced as a former coworker (and crush) of Sam's, she is nervous but also excited because she knows what a great teacher he was.

The Duncan that shows up to the school is not at all like the Duncan she knew before. He has a wall up around him and is obsessed with school safety, wanting to take away everything Sam and the other teachers love about their school. Will Sam run away like she usually does, or will she stand up for her life and her community?

The characters were relatable, I easily felt their pain and joy and became connected with them. They had interesting pasts, which added to your love for them and to your rooting for a happy ending for everyone. The characters are eccentric and loveable. The story actually hit some really big, serious issues, but was laced with humor and some powerful lessons. The main theme for the story was choosing joy, even when it's difficult.

"What You Wish For" by Katherine Center is a fun and entertaining book. It totally held my interest and made me laugh out loud and giggle several times. Who doesn't need that during these trying times in our country? If you want a book to get you out of your head, this should be your next read. You won't be disappointed.

There is some predictability to her story but, it is okay because the dialog, situations and the characters make up for it. The author made me love and care for her characters and what they were each dealing with in their lives. There were a few heavy subjects in the story but the way they were handled with empathy and humanity gave me hope.

I love a story that teaches me a few things and because the narrator was a librarian, there are some interesting things to learn. One of her friends was a math teacher and has a lot of cute little math jokes. So, I learned something new with this book.

Katherine Center is new author for me and I am excited to read more from her. If you haven't read any of her books yet, give her a try. You might find a new author to add to your list of favorites. I know I did!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest review.

Confession: I read about 32% of the way into What You Wish For, stopped, read a handful of (non-spoiler) reviews, skipped ahead to about 47% and read a few pages, then went back to 32% to start reading again.

Why? This one was, for me—and a few others, it would seem—something of a slow starter. But once it picks up, it becomes an endearing, charming, funny, and heart-rending read. It's filled with the wit and joy that I loved in Katherine Center's Happiness for Beginners, currently the only other title of hers I have read. Though, rest assured, I will be reading all of her others after this.

My advice: if you find What You Wish For a little thick in the beginning—heavy on inner monologue, and with characters you aren't yet sure you can and will like—press on. (Or skip to about 47% *shrugs*.) It's well worth it. And, by the time the end rolls around, you will be overflowing with the joy we are encouraged to seek out by Ms. Center and her protagonists. You will love the characters and their quirks, the town and its community, the book and its early, slower pages. I know it did.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Samantha is a school librarian. She loves her job, her kids, and all that it entails. Until one day when a blast from the past in the form of a man named Duncan shows up and uproots all that she and her colleagues know.

Duncan brings with him the plan to change everything that everyone knows about the school in the form of rules and regulations.

This is unlike the Duncan that Sam remembers. What in his past has made him so hardened? As Sam and Duncan explore their lives together and apart, can he become the man that Sam once had feelings for?

This was an emotionally tragic book, but I really enjoyed and finished quickly!

This is a Netgalley ARC review. All opinions are solely my own.

What You Wish For by Katherine Center is a lovely book about love and family. It may not be the family that we're given that matters but the family we choose is just as important. This was not my favorite book by Katherine Center. It seemed a much slower moving book than I am used to from her. I can't say I fell for this book until I was about 80% finished. Then it just hit me!!

Samantha has retreated to Galveston in order to rebuild her life. Galveston provides her a security that she hasn't had before. It is all turned upside down when Duncan is hired as the new principal. Duncan and Sam have history and of course they each see it differently.

Duncan's entry into the story provides a sense of chaos related to his past experiences. When trying to reconcile who he was with who he is now he says, "I can't know what I know now and be who I was then." I was blown away by that statement.

"This is what it means to be fully alive. To feel it all--the joy and the sorrow--the hope and the fear. This is what life demands of us. You just have to stay, and try, and let life break your heart." The secondary characters really drive this point home. Alice, Babette, and Tina all live this principle. "Love is only for the brave."

Samantha Casey, school librarian carries childhood scars from a father that couldn't handle her epilepsy and abandoned her, She lives with the school's principal and his art teacher wife Max & Babette in their carriage house..
They have just returned from a last minute second honeymoon and it is the night of his 60th birthday party for which the town and school staff have generously donated decorations for the party.
Their daughter Tina does not like Samantha , she resents that her parents treat her like another daughter.,
At the party Max collapses and dies,
The school board appoints Duncan Carpenter .to be the new principal. Samantha remembers him from when she worked with him a few years ago and had a crush on him. She remembers him as a great teacher and being very humorous.
The Duncan Carpenter who arrives in town is not the same man He is a suit and tie wearing guy and a rule enforcer, He wants to make many changes at the school, which doesn't go well with the school staff.,
When he has to have minor surgery Samantha discovers what made Duncan change and she sets out to have him do one silly task daily, hoping to being him back to his old self.

When a dangerous situation occurs , he and Emily bond again and realize their feelings for each other
and decide to take a chance on happily ever after.

3.5 stars - TL;DR: Overall, I enjoyed this one. I read it in about 36 hours, but the last 40% was a bit harder to get into than the beginning. I had high expectations because of The Things You Saved in a Fire, and unfortunately this did not meet those expectations. I do recommend folx read, but know it might not be your cup of tea.


Sam is an elementary school librarian in a quaint island town in Texas. She is quirky, sweet, and trying to soak as much joy out of life. But Sam is also holding back and her struggles after beloved Kempner School principal, Max, dies, Sam is adrift. Until new principal and previous crush, Duncan, shows back up and Sam realizes she will do anything to bring the loveable, goofy Duncan of her past back.

There are many things to love here: the friendships, Sam and Alice in particular, the cute town, the representation of amazing teachers, the discussion of love, loss and grief. All of those are important and KC especially does a great job highlighting grief and the burden of losing loved ones. But, there were things I struggled with as well. I love a good romance but this felt at times super rushed. There were things unresolved (literally we never went back to some of the things Duncan said while indisposed), and many things that moved so quick. Also there was no discussion of a principal dating a teacher - like isn't that against the rules?! And, some of the romance is SUPER cheesy. Like cringe worthy. Another frustrating thing was the thread of how Sam trying to understand how Duncan changed so much and it felt like KC was trying to make it is a surprise for the reader, which it definitely is extremely predictable. So as a reader I am thinking: either KC thinks that this reveal is going to be huge (which is wasn't) or KC expects the reader to realize and Sam is just oblivious. Neither of those things I like.

Overall, I enjoyed it. I will go back and read other KC's like was always my plan, but this was a bit of a letdown.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was so excited to get an early copy of this to review! And while I loved it, there were a couple things that knocked it down a star for me. The story took me a little while to get into and while I loved the premise of the story, things were a little bit far fetched. The school honestly sounded lovely but several things (bringing a non service dog to school, bringing in a fake gun, and making crazy security upgrades) just didn't really seem plausible. I did manage to suspend that disbelief though (it's a private school so who really knows) and enjoyed the rest of the story. I like Sam as a main character. She's pretty all over the place and seems lost but I still liked her quite a bit. I also like how her and Duncan's relationship evolved though at times Sam really made things more difficult. Overall I enjoyed and would recommend this book!

From Katherine Center, the New York Times bestselling author of How to Walk Away comes a stunning new novel full of heart and hope.

Samantha Casey loves everything about her job as an elementary school librarian on the sunny, historic island of Galveston, Texas—the goofy kids, the stately Victorian building, the butterfly garden. But when the school suddenly loses its beloved principal, it turns out his replacement will be none other than Duncan Carpenter—a former, unrequited crush of Sam’s from many years before.

When Duncan shows up as her new boss, though, he’s nothing like the sweet teacher she once swooned over. He’s become stiff, and humorless, and obsessed with school safety. Now, with Duncan determined to destroy everything Sam loves about her school in the name of security—and turn it into nothing short of a prison—Sam has to stand up for everyone she cares about before the school that’s become her home is gone for good.

3.5 stars

Samantha is a librarian in a small, private elementary school in Galveston, Texas. When the school's beloved principal passes away, a new principal is brought in from the outside. Sam is quite happy when she learns that it is Duncan Carpenter, who she worked with in California. (and the reason she moved away.) She remembers him as fun-loving and a jokester, but when he arrives they find he is nothing like that. In fact, he is quite serious and worried about the school's safety and security. In doing that, he is taking away all the joy of the school--for the children, for the staff, and especially for Sam.
I love Katherine Center's books and while I enjoyed this story, it definitely wasn't my favorite. I didn't really feel the chemistry between Sam and Duncan. Plus, I didn't really enjoy any of the supporting characters. This really pains me to write as I look forward to her books and I will continue to read them!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.

4.5/5 stars. What You Wish For was my first Katherine Center book, and I will definitely be coming back for more. This was such a pleasant read. Because I am a teacher who dreams of being a librarian, Sam Casey was a character I could very easily relate to. I loved following her journey to self acceptance. While I could see how some people would be frustrated by Duncan, I found him to be charming. I loved how this story progressed, and I was enthralled to keep reading to see how it would turn out. It takes a lot for me to love the ending of a book, but this ending did not disappoint. I can't wait to read my next Katherine Center novel.

This book right HERE!!!!!

I loved it, I mean Katherine always writes amazing books but this one really touched my heart, its what we need during this pandemic for sure, a reason to celebrate a la Max.

So Samantha, is a librarian, in this amazing school in a small town. Everything is perfect until the principal and her mentor suddenly dies. That for me was one of the saddest moments, for Max to die the way he did. He was he mentor, and father figure together with his wife Babette, who actually run the school and their family founded the town as well.

While all this grieving is going on, a new principal is hired, and Sam was so excited to find out its someone from her past, she had a huge rude awakening once Duncan came around. But like Samantha, Duncan also struggles with things and as they start to get closer, she finds out that he has these huge fears just like her.

I loved how the community is involved in this book, how the faculty come together in such a sweet way, I love how this book is all about bringing joy even if its a little bit of joy, in your life every single day. Perfection, and also this book is told in the voice of Samantha and shes really really funny.

Thanks Netgalley, and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to real this amazing book.

What can I say? Katherine Center's books make me happy and this one is no exception.

In What You Wish For, Samantha Casey is an elementary school librarian whose life revolves around the school where she works. After fleeing her last job because of an unrequited crush on a fellow teacher named Duncan, she's made a new home in Texas and her co-workers have become like family. But when tragedy strikes, a new principal takes over and Sam not only finds herself suddenly working for the man she ran away from - he's also changed from the free-spirited educator she fell for into a fun-smothering tyrant who threatens to destroy the place that means everything to her.

Like all good romances, you know how this is going to end but the fun is how you get there and this story takes you on a truly heartwarming ride. I loved the colorful cast of characters and Center's writing makes even some far-fetched moments feel authentic. I especially love her dialogue, like the way she has Sam describe her attraction to Duncan - "You know those people? Those very rare, very special people who just play a kind of counterbeat to yours? It was like the way we talked had a rhythm, like he was the bass drum and I was the snare. He was doing his thing and I was doing mine, but the two of us together were just super danceable." I mean, who doesn't want that?

The overall message of this book is about finding joy which feels especially relevant with everything going on now. This book brought me joy and I'm sure it will do the same for you.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and the author for an advanced copy of this book to review.

There's such an uplifting quality to Katherine Center's books that warms me up from inside and keeps me smiling the rest of the day. What You Wish For is another Katherine Center masterpiece that's left me smiling and in a great mood.

What You Wish For was adorable, encouraging, uplifting, endearing...all of the things I'm looking for in a light-hearted romance that also tackles some pretty serious (and prevalent!) issues. Choosing joy is such a beautiful reminder that we can all find our silver linings amidst the chaos and sadness around us, and that we are the change that we want to see in the world. And I love the message that we don't "fix" people; we're here to support them and be there for them, just as they are there for us. Because we're all imperfect, and we're all messy, and we all have problems. But we can face them together.

And that's beautiful.